In this episode of Below the Line, host Ryan Burke sits down with director Justin Monroe, the creative force behind the award-winning documentary Holy Frit. What begins as a chat about the biggest stained glass window in the world evolves into a deep-dive on documentary filmmaking — the chaos, the choices, and the unshakable belief that the story is worth telling.Monroe shares how a neighborly encounter turned into a 7-year filmmaking journey full of false starts, complex characters, creative instincts, and ingenious indie financing. From balancing real-time story development with long-haul editing, to managing goodwill, equity, and human capital, this conversation is a masterclass in how a filmmaker survives and thrives in the independent documentary world.Whether you're a filmmaker, film lover, or just curious how one man turned a "nobody-will-watch-this" subject into a critically acclaimed documentary — this episode is for you.✨ Holy Frit premiered at Slamdance 2021, won 10 festival awards during it's festival run, had a limited theatrical release and qualified for Oscar consideration — and now you’ll hear the story behind the camera.👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your favorite documentary or moment from this episode.

On this episode of Below the Line, host Taylor Mackenzie sits down with multi-hyphenate filmmaker Tom Malloy! With over two decades in the industry, Malloy has worn many hats—actor, writer, producer, director—and has raised millions for independent films while producing over 20 movies. Tom’s journey is a masterclass in indie filmmaking, film finance, and creative persistence.

In this episode, we dive into:🔥 How Tom built his career in acting, writing, and producing💰 His expertise in independent film financing🎥 The challenges and triumphs of bringing films to life📖 His book Bankroll, which became the gold standard in film finance.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a cinephile, or just love behind-the-scenes stories, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and industry secrets. Don’t miss it! 🎬✨

In this episode of "Below the Line" we’re joined film director John Lechago, the current Vice President of Creative Development at Platinum Studios Inc., as he delves into the world of filmmaking. Lechago, known for directing several films for Full Moon Features, including Killjoy 3 and Killjoy Goes to Hell. He brings a unique perspective shaped by his extensive experience as a filmmaker and visual effects artist. In this Episode, we explore Lechago's career in the film industry, from his early beginnings to his notable successes and learning moments. He shares invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers and offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of his journey.

Whether you're a horror enthusiast, a cinema lover, or someone dreaming of directing your own films, this episode of "Below the Line” is a must-listen. Gain insights, inspiration, and practical tips from a seasoned filmmaker who has navigated the highs and lows of the industry.